Once again the Catholic church hierarchy has missed the boat. Italian bishops have published their first ever sex abuse norms. They stress that bishops “do not have the juridical obligation to report to state judicial authorities news they receive” regarding sex abuse.

These prelates had a chance to do more than the “bare minimum.” And set a good example for their colleagues around the world by putting the safety of children first and foremost, but they chose instead to put the reputation of the church first.

No organization can police itself especially one that is a rigid monarchy ruled almost entirely by elderly white men. Policies will not protect children, actions will. We doubt that anywhere in this document are there pledges to punish those who ignore or conceal horrific child sex crimes. Until that changes, children will continue to be placed at an unnecessary risk.